Effective April 1, 2025 (Reiwa 7), certain ministerial ordinances have been amended.
In order to ensure smoother operation of the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) system, which accepts foreign nationals as immediate contributors to the workforce, and to strengthen cooperation with local communities, some of the rules have been revised. The three main changes are as follows:
1. Strengthening Cooperation for Regional Coexistence
To help foreign nationals live securely within local communities, organizations accepting SSW workers (such as host companies) are now required to:
- Submit a Cooperation Confirmation Document
- Provide necessary information when applying for residence-related procedures
- Formulate and implement support plans
- Cooperate with local governments and related institutions as needed
※ For more details, please refer to the official leaflet.
2. Revision of the Occasional Reporting System
Previously required every three months, the occasional report will, in principle, be required only once per year starting in 2026.
- Transition Period: Reports covering January to March 2025 must be submitted by April 15, 2025.
- New Rule Starts: Annual reporting will begin from April 2026.
※ Please check the official website of the Immigration Services Agency for the latest submission methods and formats.
3. Amendments to Operational Guidelines and Related Documents
The following documents related to the operation of the system have been revised:
- Revision of the main Operational Guidelines for the Acceptance of SSWs
- Partial updates to reference forms
- Amendments to guidelines regarding support for Specified Skilled Worker (i) holders
※ Please refer to the official documentation for details on the amendments.
📌 We kindly ask all companies and organizations involved to review the revised contents and take appropriate measures accordingly.